LINER LTC4012CUF-3

LTC4012-3
High Efficiency,
Multi-Chemistry Battery Charger
with PowerPath Control
Description
Features
General Purpose Battery Charger Controller
Efficient 550kHz Synchronous Buck PWM Topology
±0.5% Output Float Voltage Accuracy
Programmable Charge Current: 4% Accuracy
Programmable AC Adapter Current Limit:
3% Accuracy
No Audible Noise with Ceramic Capacitors
n INFET Low Loss Ideal Diode PowerPath™ Control
n Wide Input Voltage Range: 6V to 28V
n Wide Output Voltage Range: 2V to 28V
n Indicator Outputs for Charging, C/10 Current
Detection and Input Current Limiting
n Analog Charge Current Monitor
n Micropower Shutdown
n 20-Pin 4mm × 4mm × 0.75mm QFN Package
n
n
n
n
n
n
Applications
Notebook Computers
Portable Instruments
n Battery Backup Systems
n
n
L, LT, LTC, LTM, Linear Technology and the Linear logo are registered trademarks and
PowerPath and ThinSOT are trademarks of Linear Technology Corporation. All other trademarks
are the property of their respective owners. Protected by U.S. Patents including 5723970.
The LTC®4012-3 is a constant-current/constant-voltage
battery charger controller. It uses a synchronous quasiconstant frequency PWM control architecture that will not
generate audible noise with ceramic bulk capacitors. Charge
current is set by external resistors and can be monitored
as an output voltage across the programming resistor.
With no built-in termination, the LTC4012-3 charges a
wide range of batteries under external control.
The LTC4012-3 features fully adjustable output voltage. For
charge management and safety, the IC includes an input
P-channel MOSFET ideal diode controller, battery (output)
overvoltage protection, reverse charge current protection,
PWM soft-start and robust non-overlap control for an all
N-channel MOSFET PWM power stage.
The device includes AC adapter input current limiting, which
maximizes the charge rate for a fixed input power level. An
external sense resistor programs the input current limit,
and the ICL status pin indicates reduced charge current as
a result of AC adapter current limiting. Ideal diode control
at the adaptor input improves charger efficiency.
The CHRG status pin is active during all charging modes,
including special indication for low charge current.
Typical Application
25mΩ
0.1µF
INFET
CLP
DCIN
CLN
BOOST
TO/FROM
MCU
6.04k
SW
INTVDD
ICL
BGATE
SHDN
GND
ITH
CSP
LTC4012-3
0.1µF
CSN
PROG
26.7k
4.7nF
BAT
FBDIV
Efficiency at DCIN = 20V
100
10000
EFFICIENCY
95
0.1µF
TGATE
CHRG
5.1k
POWER TO
SYSTEM
2µF
6.8µH
3.01k
VFB
32.8k
POWER LOSS
85
33mΩ
20µF
1000
80
VOUT = 12.3V
RSENSE = 33mΩ
RIN = 3.01k
RPROG = 26.7k
75
3.01k
301k
90
70
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
CHARGE CURRENT (A)
2.5
3
POWER LOSS (mW)
0.1µF
20µF
EFFICIENCY (%)
FROM
ADAPTER
13V TO 20V
100
PIN 5 NAME
+
PART
GND
LTC4012
LTC4012-3
X
12.3V
Li-Ion
BATTERY
4012-3 TA01
ACP
X
4012-3 TA02
40123fb
LTC4012-3
BGATE
INTVDD
SW
TGATE
TOP VIEW
BOOST
20 19 18 17 16
CLN 1
15 CSP
CLP 2
14 CSN
INFET 3
13 PROG
21
DCIN 4
12 ITH
GND 5
11 BAT
8
9 10
FBDIV
7
VFB
6
ICL
DCIN.............................................................–14V to 30V
DCIN to CLP................................................. –32V to 20V
CLP, CLN or SW to GND.............................. –0.3V to 30V
CLP to CLN.............................................................±0.3V
CSP, CSN or BAT to GND............................ –0.3V to 28V
CSP to CSN.............................................................±0.3V
BOOST to GND............................................ –0.3V to 36V
BOOST to SW............................................... –0.3V to 7V
SHDN or VFB to GND..................................... –0.3V to 7V
CHRG or ICL to GND................................... –0.3V to 30V
Operating Temperature Range
(Note 2).............................................. –40°C to 125°C
Junction Temperature (Note 3).............................. 125°C
Storage Temperature Range................... –65°C to 150°C
Pin Configuration
CHRG
(Note 1)
SHDN
Absolute Maximum Ratings
UF PACKAGE
20-LEAD (4mm s 4mm) PLASTIC QFN
TJMAX = 125°C, JA = 37°C/W
EXPOSED PAD (PIN 21) IS GND, MUST BE SOLDERED TO PCB
Order Information
LEAD FREE FINISH
TAPE AND REEL
PART MARKING*
PACKAGE DESCRIPTION
TEMPERATURE RANGE
LTC4012CUF-3#PBF
LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF
40123
20-Lead (4mm × 4mm) Plastic QFN
0°C to 85°C
LTC4012IUF-3#PBF
LTC4012IUF-3#TRPBF
40123
20-Lead (4mm × 4mm) Plastic QFN
–40°C to 125°C
Consult LTC Marketing for parts specified with wider operating temperature ranges. *The temperature grade is identified by a label on the shipping container.
Consult LTC Marketing for information on non-standard lead based finish parts.
For more information on lead free part marking, go to: http://www.linear.com/leadfree/
For more information on tape and reel specifications, go to: http://www.linear.com/tapeandreel/
40123fb
LTC4012-3
Electrical
Characteristics
The l denotes the specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are at TA = 25°C. DCIN = 20V, BAT = 12V, GND = 0V unless otherwise noted. (Note 2)
SYMBOL
PARAMETER
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
MAX
UNITS
Charge Voltage Regulation
VTOL
VBAT Accuracy (See Test Circuits)
IVFB
VFB Input Bias Current
VFB = 1.2V
RON
FBDIV On Resistance
ILOAD = 100µA
l
ILEAK-FBDIV
FBDIV Output Leakage Current
SHDN = 0V, FBDIV = 0V
l
–1
VBOV
VFB Overvoltage Threshold
l
1.235
l
l
–4
–5
–9.5
C-Grade
I-Grade
l
l
–0.5
–0.8
–1.0
0.5
0.8
1.0
±20
85
%
%
%
nA
190
Ω
0
1
µA
1.281
1.32
V
4
5
9.5
%
%
%
Charge Current Regulation
ITOL
Charge Current Accuracy with RIN = 3.01k,
6V < BAT < 18V
RPROG = 26.7k
C-Grade
I-Grade
VSENSE = 0mV, PROG = 1.2V
–12.75
–11.67
–10.95
µA
–1.78
–1.66
–1.54
µA
140
125
195
mV
mV
mV
AI
Current Sense Amplifier Gain (PROG ∆I) with
RIN = 3.01k, 6V < BAT < 18V
VSENSE Step from 0mV to 5mV,
PROG = 1.2V
VCS-MAX
Maximum Peak Current Sense Threshold Voltage
per Cycle (RIN = 3.01k)
ITH = 2V, C-Grade
ITH = 2V, I-Grade
ITH = 5V
325
250
265
430
VC10
C/10 Indicator Threshold Voltage
PROG Falling
340
400
460
mV
VREV
Reverse Current Threshold Voltage
PROG Falling
180
253
295
mV
97
96
92
100
100
103
104
108
mV
mV
mV
–5
–2
mV
28
V
4.85
5.25
V
l
l
l
Input Current Regulation
VCL
Current Limit Threshold
CLP – CLN
C-Grade
I-Grade
ICLN
CLN Input Bias Current
CLN = CLP
VICL
ICL Indicator Threshold
(CLP – CLN) – VCL
l
l
±100
–8
nA
CLP Supply
OVR
Operating Voltage Range
VUVLO
CLP Undervoltage Lockout Threshold
VUV(HYST)
UVLO Threshold Hysteresis
ICLPO
CLP Operating Current
6
CLP Increasing
l
4.65
200
CLP = 20V, No Gate Loads
2
mV
3
mA
300
mV
Shutdown
VIL
SHDN Input Voltage Low
l
VIH
SHDN Input Voltage High
l
RIN
SHDN Pull-Down Resistance
ICLPS
CLP Shutdown Current
CLP = 12V, DCIN = 0V
SHDN = 0V
l
ILEAK-BAT
BAT Leakage Current
SHDN = 0V or DCIN = 0V,
0V ≤ CSP = CSN = BAT ≤ 18V
l
ILEAK-CSN
CSN Leakage Current
SHDN = 0V or DCIN = 0V,
0V ≤ CSP = CSN = BAT ≤ 20V
ILEAK-CSP
CSP Leakage Current
ILEAK-SW
SW Leakage Current
1.4
V
40
kΩ
15
350
26
500
µA
µA
–1.5
0
1.5
µA
l
–1.5
0
1.5
µA
SHDN = 0V or DCIN = 0V,
0V ≤ CSP = CSN = BAT ≤ 20V
l
–1.5
0
1.5
µA
SHDN = 0V or DCIN = 0V,
0V ≤ SW ≤ 20V
l
–1
0
2
µA
40123fb
LTC4012-3
Electrical
Characteristics
The l denotes the specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are at TA = 25°C. DCIN = 20V, BAT = 12V, GND = 0V unless otherwise noted. (Note 2)
SYMBOL
PARAMETER
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
MAX
UNITS
INTVDD Regulator
INTVDD
Output Voltage
No Load
ΔVDD
Load Regulation
IDD = 20mA
IDD
Short-Circuit Current (Note 5)
INTVDD = 0V
l
4.85
5
5.15
V
–0.4
–1
%
50
85
130
mA
350
300
500
650
700
mV
mV
633
kHz
Switching Regulator
VACP
AC Present Charge Enable Threshold Voltage
DCIN – BAT, DCIN Rising
C-Grade
I-Grade
ITH = 1.4V
IITH
ITH Current
fTYP
Typical Switching Frequency
fMIN
Minimum Switching Frequency
DCMAX
tR-TG
l
l
–40/+90
µA
467
550
CLOAD = 3.3nF
20
25
Maximum Duty Cycle
CLOAD = 3.3nF
98
99
TGATE Rise Time
CLOAD = 3.3nF, 10% – 90%
60
110
ns
tF-TG
TGATE Fall Time
CLOAD = 3.3nF, 90% – 10%
50
110
ns
tR-BG
BGATE Rise Time
CLOAD = 3.3nF, 10% – 90%
60
110
ns
tF-BG
BGATE Fall Time
CLOAD = 3.3nF, 90% – 10%
60
110
ns
tNO
TGATE, BGATE Non-Overlap Time
CLOAD = 3.3nF, 10% – 10%
110
kHz
%
ns
PowerPath Control
IDCIN
DCIN Input Current
0V ≤ DCIN ≤ CLP
l
–10
60
µA
VFTO
Forward Turn-On Voltage (DCIN Detection Threshold)
DCIN-CLP, DCIN Rising
l
15
60
mV
VFR
Forward Regulation Voltage
DCIN-CLP
l
15
25
35
mV
VRTO
Reverse Turn-Off Voltage
DCIN-CLP, DCIN Falling
l
–45
–25
–15
mV
VOL(INFET)
INFET Output Low Voltage, Relative to CLP
DCIN-CLP = 0.1V, IINFET =1µA
–6.5
–5
V
VOH(INFET)
INFET Output High Voltage, Relative to CLP
DCIN-CLP = –0.1V, IINFET =–5µA
–250
250
mV
tIF(ON)
INFET Turn-On Time
To CLP-INFET > 3V, CINFET = 1nF
85
180
µs
tIF(OFF)
INFET Turn-Off Time
To CLP-INFET < 1.5V, CINFET = 1nF
2.5
6
µs
500
mV
10
µA
38
µA
Indicator Outputs
VOL
Output Voltage Low
ILOAD = 100µA, PROG = 1.2V
ILEAK
Output Leakage
SHDN = 0V, DCIN = 0V, VOUT = 20V
l
–10
IC10
CHRG C/10 Current Sink
CHRG = 2.5V
l
15
Note 1: Stresses beyond those listed under Absolute Maximum Ratings
may cause permanent damage to the device. Exposure to any Absolute
Maximum Rating condition for extended periods may affect device
reliability and lifetime.
Note 2: The LTC4012C-3 is guaranteed to meet performance specifications
over the 0°C to 85°C operating temperature range. The LTC4012I-3 is
guaranteed to meet performance specifications over the –40°C to 125°C
operating temperature range.
25
Note 3: Operating junction temperature TJ (in °C) is calculated from
the ambient temperature TA and the total continuous package power
dissipation PD (in watts) by the formula TJ = TA + (θJA • PD). Refer to the
Applications Information section for details.
Note 4: All currents into device pins are positive; all currents out of device
pins are negative. All voltages are referenced to GND, unless otherwise
specified.
Note 5: Output current may be limited by internal power dissipation. Refer
to the Applications Information section for details.
40123fb
LTC4012-3
Typical Performance Characteristics
(TA = 25°C unless otherwise noted. L = IHLP-2525 6.8µH)
Efficiency at DCIN = 20V, BAT = 8V
100
Efficiency at DCIN = 20V, BAT = 12V
10000
RSENSE = 33mΩ
RIN = 3.01k
100
EFFICIENCY
1000
POWER LOSS
85
POWER LOSS
90
85
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
CHARGE CURRENT (A)
2.5
3
100
80
0
Efficiency at DCIN = 20V, BAT = 16V
0.10
EFFICIENCY
85
100
4012-3 G02
2.5
0.04
0.02
0
–0.02
–0.04
–0.06
RSENSE = 33mΩ
RIN = 3.01k
1
1.5
2
CHARGE CURRENT (A)
VFB ERROR (%)
1000
POWER LOSS
POWER LOSS(mW)
EFFICIENCY (%)
3
0.06
95
0.5
2.5
LTC4012-3 TEST CIRCUIT
0.08
0
1
1.5
2
CHARGE CURRENT (A)
VFB Line Regulation
10000
90
0.5
4012-3 G01
100
80
1000
POWER LOSS(mW)
EFFICIENCY
90
EFFICIENCY (%)
95
POWER LOSS(mW)
EFFICIENCY (%)
95
80
10000
RSENSE = 33mΩ
RIN = 3.01k
–0.08
3
100
–0.10
10
5
20
15
CLP (V)
4012-3 G03
25
30
4012-3 G04
Battery Load Dump
FBDIV Pin RON vs Battery Voltage
300
BATTERY VOLTAGE
(500mV/DIV)
CLP = BAT + 3V
(CLP ≥ 6V)
275
250
RON (Ω)
225
200
175
LOAD
STATE
150
1A
12.1V
1A
3A
RECONNECT
DISCONNECT
TIME (1ms/DIV)
4012-3 G06
CLP = 20V
VOUT = 12.3V
125
100
75
2A
0
5
15
10
BAT (V)
20
25
4012-3 G05
40123fb
LTC4012-3
Typical Performance Characteristics
(TA = 25°C unless otherwise noted. L = IHLP-2525 6.8µH)
Charge Current Line Regulation
Charge Current Accuracy
0.5
2
DCIN = 24V
RPROG = 35.7k
–1
–2
DCIN = 12V
RPROG = 26.7k
–3
–4
RSENSE = 33mΩ
RIN = 3.01k
–5
0
2
4
6
CHARGE CURRENT ERROR (%)
CHARGE CURRENT ERROR (%)
0
–6
BAT = 6V
RSENSE = 33mΩ
RIN = 3.01k
0.4
1
0.3
ICHG = 1A
0.2
0.1
ICHG = 2A
0
–0.1
ICHG = 3A
–0.2
–0.3
–0.4
–0.5
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
BAT (V)
5
10
15
DCIN (V)
25
20
4012-3 G08
4012-3 G07
Charge Current Load Regulation
Input Current Limit
3.5
ICHG = 3A
3.0
2.5
2.5
ICHG = 2A
2.0
1.5
ICHG = 1A
1.0
0.5
0
IIN
2.0
CURRENT (A)
CHARGE CURRENT (A)
3.0
ICHG
1.5
1.0
0.5
2.5A BULK CHARGE
2.1A INPUT CURRENT LIMIT
0
DCIN = 20V
RSENSE = 33mΩ
RIN = 3.01k
–0.5
11.0
11.4
11.8
12.2
BAT (V)
–0.5
12.6
13.0
–1.0
ICL STATE
0
0.5
1.0
1.5
SYSTEM LOAD (A)
2.5
4012-3 G10
4012-3 G09
PWM Soft-Start
Gate Drive Non-Overlap
EXTERNAL FET DRIVE (1V/DIV)
ICHG
2A/DIV
ITH
1V/DIV
PROG
1V/DIV
SHDN
5V/DIV
TIME (500µs/DIV)
2.0
4012-3 G11
BGATE
TGATE
TIME (80ns/DIV)
4012-3 G12
40123fb
LTC4012-3
Typical Performance Characteristics
(TA = 25°C unless otherwise noted. L = IHLP-2525 6.8µH)
PWM Frequency
vs Charge Current
PWM Frequency vs Duty Cycle
600
600
ICHG = 750mA
400
300
200
CLP = 6V
CLP = 12V
CLP = 20V
CLP = 25V
100
0
BAT = 5V
500
PWM FREQUENCY (kHz)
PWM FREQUENCY (kHz)
500
0
20
40
60
DUTY CYCLE (%)
80
BAT = 12V
400
CLP = 15V
RSENSE = 33mΩ
RIN = 3.01k
300
200
BAT = 14.5V
100
100
0
0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
CHARGE CURRENT (A)
4012-3 G13
2.5
3.0
4012-3 G14
INFET Response Time to
DCIN Short to Ground
Battery Shutdown Current
BATTERY CURRENT (µA)
25
VGS = 0V
DC1256-CLASS
APPLICATION
DCIN = 0V
20
15
IDCIN, REVERSE
(5A/DIV)
LTC4012-3,
ALL PINS
DCIN = 0V
10
PFET VGS (1V/DIV)
0A
TIME (1µs/DIV)
LTC4012-3,
BAT PINS
DCIN = 20V
5
0
0
5
20
10
15
BATTERY VOLTAGE (V)
25
4012-3 G16
DCIN = 15V
INFET = Si7423DN
IOUT = <50mA
VOUT = 12.3V
COUT = 0.27F
4012-3 G15
40123fb
LTC4012-3
Pin Functions
CLN (Pin 1): Adapter Input Current Limit Negative Input.
The LTC4012-3 senses voltage on this pin to determine if
less charge current should be sourced to limit total input
current. The threshold is set 100mV below the CLP pin. An
external filter should be used to remove switching noise.
This input should be tied to CLP if not used. Operating
voltage range is (CLP – 110mV) to CLP.
VFB (Pin 9): Battery Voltage Feedback Input. An external
resistor divider between FBDIV and GND with the center
tap connected to VFB programs the charger output voltage.
In constant voltage mode, this pin is nominally at 1.2085V.
Refer to the Applications Information section for complete
details on programming battery voltage. Operating voltage
range is GND to 1.25V.
CLP (Pin 2): Adapter Input Current Limit Positive Input.
The LTC4012-3 also draws power from this pin, including
a small amount for some shutdown functions. Operating
voltage range is GND to 28V.
FBDIV (Pin 10): Battery Voltage Feedback Resistor Divider
Source. The LTC4012-3 connects this pin to BAT when
charging is in progress. FBDIV is an open-drain PFET output
to BAT with an operating voltage range of GND to BAT.
INFET (Pin 3): PowerPath Control Output. This output
drives the gate of a PMOS pass transistor connected
between the DC input (DCIN) and the raw system supply
rail (CLP) to maintain a forward voltage of 25mV when a
DC input source is present. INFET is internally clamped
about 6V below CLP. Maximum operating voltage is CLP,
which is used to turn off the input PMOS transistor when
the DC input is removed.
BAT (Pin 11): Battery Pack Connection. The LTC4012-3
uses the voltage on this pin to control PWM operation when
charging. Operating voltage range is GND to CLN.
DCIN (Pin 4): DC Sense Input. One of two voltage sense
inputs to the internal PowerPath controller (the other input
to the controller is CLP). This input is usually supplied
from an input DC power source. Operating voltage ranges
from GND to 28.2V.
GND (Pin 5): Ground. Internally connected to the Exposed
Pad (package paddle).
SHDN (Pin 6): Active-Low Shutdown Input. Driving SHDN
below 300mV unconditionally forces the LTC4012-3 into the
shutdown state. This input has a 40kΩ internal pull-down
to GND. Operating voltage range is GND to INTVDD.
CHRG (Pin 7): Active-Low Charge Indicator Output. This
open-drain output provides three levels of information
about charge status using a strong pull-down, 25µA weak
pull-down or high impedance. Refer to the Operation and
Applications Information sections for further details. This
output should be left floating if not used.
ICL (Pin 8): Active-Low Input Current Limit Indicator Output. This open-drain output pulls to GND when the charge
current is reduced because of AC adapter input current
limiting. This output should be left floating if not used.
ITH (Pin 12): PWM Control Voltage and Compensation
Node. The LTC4012-3 develops a voltage on this pin to
control cycle-by-cycle peak inductor current. An external
R-C network connected to ITH provides PWM loop compensation. Refer to the Applications Information section
for further details on establishing loop stability. Operating
voltage range is GND to INTVDD.
PROG (Pin 13): Charge Current Programming and Monitoring Pin. An external resistance connected between PROG
and GND, along with the current sense and PWM input
resistors, programs the maximum charge current. The
voltage on this pin can also provide a linearized indicator
of charge current. Refer to the Applications Information
section for complete details on current programming and
monitoring. Operating voltage range is GND to INTVDD.
CSN (Pin 14): Charge Current Sense Negative Input.
Place an external input resistor (RIN , Figure 1) between
this pin and the negative side of the charge current sense
resistor. Operating voltage ranges from (BAT – 50mV) to
(BAT + 200mV).
CSP (Pin 15): Charge Current Sense Positive Input.
Place an external input resistor (RIN , Figure 1) between
this pin and the positive side of the charge current sense
resistor. Operating voltage ranges from (BAT – 50mV)
to (BAT + 200mV).
40123fb
LTC4012-3
Pin Functions
BGATE (Pin 16): External Synchronous NFET Gate Control
Output. This output provides gate drive to an external NMOS
power transistor switch used for synchronous rectification
to increase efficiency in the step-down DC/DC converter.
Operating voltage is GND to INTVDD. BGATE should be
left floating if not used.
INTVDD (Pin 17): Internal 5V Regulator Output. This pin
provides a means of bypassing the internal 5V regulator
used to power the LTC4012-3 PWM FET drivers. This supply shuts down when the LTC4012-3 shuts down. Refer to
the Application Information section for details if additional
power is drawn from this pin by the application circuit.
SW (Pin 18): PWM Switch Node. The LTC4012-3 uses the
voltage on this pin as the source reference for its topside
NFET (PWM switch) driver. Refer to the Applications Information section for additional PCB layout suggestions
related to this critical circuit node. Operating voltage range
is GND to CLN.
TGATE (Pin 19): External NFET Switch Gate Control Output.
This output provides gate drive to an external NMOS power
transistor switch used in the DC/DC converter. Operating
voltage range is GND to (CLN + 5V).
BOOST (Pin 20): TGATE Driver Supply Input. A bootstrap
capacitor is returned to this pin from a charge network
connected to SW and INTVDD. Refer to the Applications
Information section for complete details on circuit topology and component values. Operating voltage ranges from
(INTVDD – 1V) to (CLN + 5V).
GND (Exposed Pad Pin 21): Ground. The package paddle
provides a single-point ground for the internal voltage
reference and other critical LTC4012-3 circuits. It should be
soldered to a suitable PCB copper ground pad for proper
electrical operation and to obtain the specified package
thermal resistance.
40123fb
LTC4012-3
Block Diagram
4
3
DCIN
–
INFET
IF
+
2
1
8
7
9
FAULT
DETECTION
CLP
INPUT
CURRENT
LIMIT
CLN
ICL
CHRG
C/10
DETECTION
VFB
+
CSP
–
CSN
CA
+
5
SHUTDOWN
CONTROL
GND
SHUTDOWN
TO
INTERNAL
CIRCUITS
CC
–
EA
+
–
–
–
6
SHDN
TO INTERNAL
CIRCUITS
11
R1
PROG
OSCILLATOR
BOOST
ACP
TGATE
CHARGE
FBDIV
10
14
13
1.2085V
REFERENCE
ITH
BAT
15
PWM
LOGIC
SW
TO
INTERNAL
CIRCIUTS
5V
REGULATOR
INTVDD
BGATE
GND
(PADDLE)
12
20
19
18
17
16
21
4012-3 BD01
40123fb
10
LTC4012-3
Test Circuits
LTC4012-3
FROM ICL
(CLP = CLN)
1.2085V
PROG
13
–
–
–
+
EA
VFB
ITH
9
12
1.2085V
TARGET
+
LTC1055
–
0.6V
4012-3 TC01
40123fb
11
LTC4012-3
Operation
Overview
Input PowerPath Control
The LTC4012-3 is a synchronous step-down (buck) current mode PWM battery charger controller. The maximum
charge current is programmed by the combination of a
charge current sense resistor (RSENSE), matched input
resistors (RIN , Figure 1), and a programming resistor
(RPROG) between the PROG and GND pins. Battery voltage
is programmed with an external resistor divider between
FBDIV and GND. In addition, the PROG pin provides a
linearized voltage output of the actual charge current.
The input PFET controller performs many important functions. First, it monitors DCIN and enables the charger
when this input voltage is higher than the raw CLP system supply. Next, it controls the gate of an external input
power PFET to maintain a low forward voltage drop when
charging, creating improved efficiency. It also prevents
reverse current flow through this same PFET, providing
a suitable input blocking function. Finally, it helps avoid
synchronous boost operation during invalid operating
conditions by detecting elevated CLP voltage and forcing
the charger off.
The LTC4012-3 does not have built-in charge termination
and is flexible enough for charging any type of battery
chemistry. It is a building block IC intended for use with
an external circuit, such as a microcontroller, capable of
managing the entire algorithm required for the specific
battery being charged. The LTC4012-3 features a shutdown input and various state indicator outputs, allowing
easy and direct management by a wide range of external
(digital) charge controllers.
Shutdown
The LTC4012-3 remains in shutdown until DCIN is greater
than 5.1V and exceeds CLP by 60mV and SHDN is driven
above 1.4V. In shutdown, current drain from the battery
is reduced to the lowest possible level, thereby increasing
standby time. When in shutdown, the ITH pin is pulled to
GND and CHRG, ICL, FET gate drivers and INTVDD are all
disabled. Charging can be stopped at any time by forcing
SHDN below 300mV.
AC Present Detection
AC present is detected as soon as DCIN exceeds BAT by at
least 500mV. Charging is not enabled until this condition is
first met. After this event, charging is no longer gated by
AC present detection. If battery voltage rises due to ESR,
or DCIN droops due to current load, the PWM will remain
enabled, even with very low input overhead, unless DCIN
falls below the supply voltage on CLP.
If DCIN voltage is less than CLP, then DCIN must rise
60mV higher than CLP to enable the charger and activate
the ideal diode control. The gate of the input PFET is
driven to a voltage sufficient to regulate a forward drop
between DCIN and CLP of about 25mV. If the input voltage
differential drops below this point, the FET is turned off
slowly. If the voltage between DCIN and CLP drops to less
than –25mV, the input FET is turned off in less than 6µs
to prevent significant reverse current from flowing back
through the PFET, and the charger is disabled.
Soft-Start
Exiting the shutdown state enables the charger and releases
the ITH pin. When enabled, switching will not begin until
DCIN exceeds BAT by 500mV and ITH exceeds a threshold
that assures initial current will be positive (about 5% to
25% of the maximum programmed current). To limit inrush
current, soft-start delay is created with the compensation
values used on the ITH pin. Longer soft-start times can be
realized by increasing the filter capacitor on ITH, if reduced
loop bandwidth is acceptable. The actual charge current at
the end of soft-start will depend on which loop (current,
voltage or adapter limit) is in control of the PWM. If this
current is below that required by the ITH start-up threshold,
the resulting charge current transient duration depends on
loop compensation but is typically less than 100µs.
40123fb
12
LTC4012-3
Operation
LTC4012-3
2
11
WATCHDOG
TIMER
CLP
BAT
CLOCK
OSCILLATOR
S
SYSTEM
POWER
TGATE
Q
PWM
LOGIC
RD
BGATE
+
+
CA
CC
R1
–
–
CSP
CSN
PROG
19
L1
16
+
–
–
–
FROM ICL AMP
VFB
RSENSE
RIN
14
VSENSE
–
ICHRG
13
RPROG
EA
+
RIN
15
CPROG
+
9
1.2085V
ITH
12
LOOP
COMPENSATION
4012-3 F01
Figure 1. PWM Circuit Diagram
Bulk Charge
When soft-start is complete, the LTC4012-3 begins sourcing the current programmed by the external components
connected to CSP, CSN and PROG. Some batteries may
require a small conditioning trickle current if they are heavily
discharged. As shown in the Applications Information section, the LT4012-3 can address this need through a variety
of low current circuit techniques on the PROG pin. Once
a suitable cell voltage has been reached, charge current
can be switched to a higher, bulk charge value.
End of Charge and CHRG Output
As the battery approaches the programmed output voltage, charge current will begin to decrease. The open-drain
CHRG output can indicate when the current drops to 10%
of its programmed full-scale value by turning off the strong
pull-down (open-drain FET) and turning on a weak 25µA
pull-down current. This weak pull-down state is latched
until the part enters shutdown or the sensed current rises
to roughly C/6. C/10 indication will not be set if charge
current has been reduced due to adapter input current
limiting. As the charge current approaches 0A, the PWM
continues to operate in full continuous mode. This avoids
generation of audible noise, allowing bulk ceramic capacitors to be used in the application.
Charge Current Monitoring
When the LTC4012-3 is charging, the voltage on the PROG
pin varies in direct proportion to the charge current. Referring to Figure 1, the nominal PROG voltage is given by:
VPROG =
ICHRG • RSENSE • RPROG
+ 11.67µA • RPROG
RIN
Voltage tolerance on PROG is limited by the charge current
accuracy specified in the Electrical Characteristics table.
Refer to the Applications Information section on programming charge current for additional details.
40123fb
13
LTC4012-3
Operation
Adapter Input Current Limit
Table 1. LTC4012-3 Open-Drain Indicator Outputs
The LTC4012-3 can monitor and limit current from the
input DC supply, which is normally an AC adapter. When
the programmed adapter input current is reached, charge
current is reduced to maintain the desired maximum input
current. The ITH and PROG pins will reflect the reduced
charge current. This limit function avoids overloading the
DC input source, allowing the product to operate at the
same time the battery is charging without complex load
management algorithms. The battery will automatically be
charged at the maximum possible rate that the adapter will
support, given the application’s operating condition. The
LTC4012-3 can only limit input current by reducing charge
current, and in this case the charger uses nonsynchronous PWM operation to prevent boosting if the average
charge current falls below about 25% of the maximum
programmed current. Note that the ICL indicator output
becomes active (low) at an adapter input current level just
slightly less than that required for the internal amplifier to
begin to assert control over the PWM loop.
Charger Status Indicator Outputs
The LTC4012-3 open-drain indicator outputs provide valuable information about the IC’s operating state and can
be used for a variety of purposes in applications. Table 1
summarizes the state of the indicator outputs as a function
of LTC4012-3 operation.
ON
CHRG
Off
ICL
Off
On
25µA
Off
Off
On
On
25µA
On
CHARGER STATE
No DC Input (Shutdown)
or Reverse Current
Bulk Charge
Low Current Charge or Initial
DCIN – BAT <500mV
Input Current Limit During Bulk
Charge
Input Current Limit During Low
Current Charge
PWM Controller
The LTC4012-3 uses a synchronous step-down architecture to produce high operating efficiency. The nominal
operating frequency of 550kHz allows use of small filter
components. The following conceptual discussion of basic
PWM operation references Figure 1.
The voltage across the external charge current sense
resistor RSENSE is measured by current amplifier, CA. This
instantaneous current (VSENSE/RIN) is fed to the PROG pin
where it is averaged by an external capacitor and converted
to a voltage by the programming resistor RPROG between
PROG and GND. The PROG voltage becomes the average
charge current input signal to error amplifier, EA. EA also
receives loop control information from the battery voltage
feedback input, VFB, and the adapter input current limit
circuit.
tOFF
TOP FET
OFF
ON
BOTTOM FET
OFF
THRESHOLD
SET BY ITH
VOLTAGE
INDUCTOR
CURRENT
4012-3 F02
Figure 2. PWM Waveforms
40123fb
14
LTC4012-3
Operation
The ITH output of the error amplifier is a scaled control
voltage for one input of the PWM comparator, CC. ITH
sets a peak inductor current threshold, sensed by R1, to
maintain the desired average current through RSENSE. The
current comparator output does this by switching the state
of the RS latch at the appropriate time.
At the beginning of each oscillator cycle, the PWM clock
sets the RS latch and turns on the external topside NFET
(bottom-side synchronous NFET off) to refresh the current
carried by the external inductor L1. The inductor current
and voltage across RSENSE begin to rise linearly. CA buffers
this instantaneous voltage rise and applies it to CC with
gain supplied by R1. When the voltage across R1 exceeds
the peak level set by the ITH output of EA, the top FET
turns off and the bottom FET turns on. The inductor current then ramps down linearly until the next rising PWM
clock edge. This closes the loop and sources the correct
inductor current to maintain the desired parameter (charge
current, battery voltage, or input current). To produce a
near constant frequency, the PWM oscillator implements
the equation:
tOFF =
CLP – BAT
CLP • 550kHz
Repetitive, closed-loop waveforms for stable PWM operation appear in Figure 2.
PWM Watchdog Timer
As input and output conditions vary, the LTC4012-3 may
need to utilize PWM duty cycles approaching 100%.
In this case, operating frequency may be reduced well
below 550kHz. An internal watchdog timer observes the
activity on the TGATE pin. If TGATE is on for more than
40µs, the watchdog activates and forces the bottom
NFET on (top NFET off) for about 100ns. This avoids a
potential source of audible noise when using ceramic
input or output capacitors and prevents the boost supply
capacitor for the top gate driver from discharging. In low
drop out operation, the actual charge current may not be
able to reach the programmed full-scale value due to the
watchdog function.
Overvoltage Protection
The LTC4012-3 also contains overvoltage detection that
prevents transient battery voltage overshoots of more than
about 6% above the programmed output voltage. When
battery overvoltage is detected, both external MOSFETs are
turned off until the overvoltage condition clears, at which
time a new soft-start sequence begins. This is useful for
properly charging battery packs that use an internal switch
to disconnect themselves for performing functions such
as calibration or pulse mode charging.
Reverse Charge Current Protection (Anti-Boost)
Because the LTC4012-3 always attempts to operate
synchronously in full continuous mode (to avoid audible
noise from ceramic capacitors), reverse average charge
current can occur during some invalid operating conditions. INFET PowerPath control avoids boosting a lightly
loaded system supply during reverse operation. However,
under heavier system loads, CLP may not boost above
DCIN, even though reverse average current is flowing. In
this case a second circuit monitors indication of reverse
average current on PROG.
If either of these circuits detects boost operation, The
LTC4012-3 turns off both external MOSFETs until the
reverse current condition clears. At that point, a new
soft-start sequence begins.
40123fb
15
LTC4012-3
Applications Information
Programming Charge Current
The formula for charge current is:
ICHRG =
RIN
RSENSE
 1.2085V

•
– 11.67µA
 RPROG

The LTC4012-3 operates best with 3.01k input resistors,
although other resistors near this value can be used to
accommodate standard sense resistor values. Refer to
the subsequent discussion on inductor selection for other
considerations that come into play when selecting input
resistors RIN.
RSENSE should be chosen according to the following
equation:
RSENSE =
For a truly continuous range of maximum charge current
control, pulse width modulation can be used as shown
in Figure 4.
100mV
IMAX
where IMAX is the desired maximum charge current ICHRG.
The 100mV target can be adjusted to some degree to obtain
standard RSENSE values and/or a desired RPROG value, but
target voltages lower than 100mV will cause a proportional
reduction in current regulation accuracy.
The required minimum resistance between PROG and GND
can be determined by applying the suggested expression
for RSENSE while solving the first equation given above for
charge current with ICHRG = IMAX:
However, some batteries require a low charge current for
initial conditioning when they are heavily discharged. The
charge current can then be safely switched to a higher
level after conditioning is complete. Figure 3 illustrates
one method of doing this with 2-level control of the PROG
pin resistance. Turning Q1 off reduces the charge current
to IMAX/10 for battery conditioning. When Q1 is on, the
LTC4012-3 is programmed to allow full IMAX current for
bulk charge. This technique can be expanded through
the use of additional digital control inputs for an arbitrary
number of pre-programmed current values.
RPROG(MIN) =
LTC4012-3
PROG
13
The resistance between PROG and GND can simply be
set with a single a resistor, if only maximum charge current needs to be controlled during the desired charging
algorithm.
Q1
2N7002
PRECHARGE
CPROG
4.7nF
R2
53.6k
4012-3 F03
Figure 3. Programming 2-Level Charge Current
1.2085V • RIN
0.1V + 11.67µA • RIN
If RIN is chosen to be 3.01k with a sense voltage of 100mV,
this equation indicates a minimum value for RPROG of
26.9k. Table 6 gives some examples of recommended
charge current programming component values based
on these equations.
R1
26.7k
BULK
CHARGE
LTC4012-3
PROG
13
RPROG
5V
0V
CPROG
Q1
2N7002
RMAX
511k
4012-3 F04
Figure 4. Programming PWM Current
40123fb
16
LTC4012-3
Applications Information
The value of RPROG controls the maximum value of charge
current which can be programmed (Q1 continuously on).
PWM of the Q1 gate voltage changes the value of RPROG
to produce lower currents. The frequency of this modulation should be higher than a few kHz, and CPROG must be
increased to reduce the ripple caused by switching Q1. In
addition, it may be necessary to increase loop compensation capacitance connected to ITH to maintain stability or
prevent large current overshoot during start-up. Selecting
a higher Q1 PWM frequency (≈10kHz) will reduce the need
to change CPROG or other compensation values. Charge
current will be proportional to the duty cycle of the PWM
input on the gate of Q1.
Programming LTC4012-3 Output Voltage
Figure 5 shows the external circuit for programming the
charger output voltage. The voltage is then governed by
the following equation:
VBAT =
1.2085V • (R1+ R2)
R2
,R2 = R2A + R2B
See Table 2 for approximate resistor values for R2.
 V

R1 = R2  BAT – 1 , R2 = R2A + R2B
1.2085V 
Selecting R2 to be less than 50k and the sum of R1 and
R2 at least 200k or above, achieves the lowest possible
error at the VFB sense input. Note that sources of error
such as R1 and R2 tolerance, FBDIV RON or VFB input impedance are not included in the specifications given in the
Electrical Characteristics. This leads to the possibility that
very accurate (0.1%) external resistors might be required.
Actually, the temperature rise of the LTC4012-3 will rarely
exceed 50°C at the end of charge, because charge current
will have tapered to a low level. This means that 0.25%
resistors will normally provide the required level of overall
accuracy. Table 2 gives recommended values for R1 and
R2 for popular lithium-ion battery voltages. For values
of R1 above 200k, addition of capacitor CZ may improve
transient response and loop stability. A value of 10pF is
normally adequate.
Table 2. Programming Output Voltage
BAT
85Ω
TYPICAL
FBDIV
11
10
CZ
R1
LTC4012-3
+
VFB
9
R2A
GND
(EXPOSED PAD) 21
*OPTIONAL TRIM RESISTOR
R2B*
4012-3 F05
Figure 5. Programming Output Voltage
VBAT
(V)
R1 (0.25%)
(kΩ)
R2A (0.25%)
(kΩ)
R2B (1%)*
(Ω)
4.1
165
69
–
4.2
167
67.3
200
8.2
162
28
–
8.4
169
28.4
–
12.3
301
32.8
–
12.6
294
31.2
–
16.4
284
22.6
–
16.8
271
21
–
20.5
316
19.8
–
21
298
18.2
–
24.6
298
15.4
–
25.2
397
20
–
*To Obtain Desired Accuracy Requires Series Resistors For R2.
40123fb
17
LTC4012-3
Applications Information
Programming Input Current Limit
To set the input current limit, ILIM , the minimum wall
adapter current rating must be known. To account for the
tolerance of the LTC4012-3 input current sense circuit, 5%
should be subtracted from the adapter’s minimum rated
output. Refer to Figure 6 and program the input current
limit function with the following equation:
RCL
100mV
=
ILIM
where ILIM is the desired maximum current draw from
the DC (adapter) input, including adjustments for tolerance,
if any.
FROM DC
POWER
INPUT
RCL
CDC
RF
5.1k
CF 0.1µF
10k
2
TO
REMAINDER
OF SYSTEM
1
CLP
CLN
LTC4012-3
3 INFET
Table 3. Common RCL Values
ADAPTER
RATING
(A)
RCL VALUE (1%)
(Ω)
RCL POWER
DISSIPATION
(W)
RCL POWER
RATING
(W)
1.00
0.100
0.100
0.25
1.25
0.080
0.125
0.25
1.50
0.068
0.150
0.25
1.75
0.056
0.175
0.25
2.00
0.050
0.200
0.25
2.50
0.039
0.244
0.50
3.00
0.033
0.297
0.50
3.50
0.027
0.331
0.50
4.00
0.025
0.400
0.50
Figure 7 shows an optional circuit that can influence
the parameters of the input current limit in two ways.
The first option is to lower the power dissipation of RCL at
the expense of accuracy without changing the input current
limit value. The second is to make the input current limit
value programmable.
4012-3 F06
FROM INFET
Figure 6. Programming Input Current Limit
Often an AC adapter will include a rated current output
margin of at least +10%. This can allow the adapter current limit value to simply be programmed to the actual
minimum rated adapter output current. Table 3 shows
some common RCL current limit programming values.
A lowpass filter formed by RF (5.1k) and CF (0.1µF) is
required to eliminate switching noise from the LTC4012-3
PWM and other system components. If input current limiting is not desired, CLN should be shorted to CLP while
CLP remains connected to power.
CLP
2
LTC4012-3
CLN
1
INTVDD 17
CF
0.22µF
RF
2.49k 1%
R2
RCL
1%
TO REMAINDER
OF SYSTEM
Q2
2SC2412
Q1
IMX1
R1
1%
R3 = R1
1%
4012-3 F07
Figure 7. Adjusting Input Current Limit
40123fb
18
LTC4012-3
Applications Information
The overall accuracy of this circuit needs to be better
than the power source current tolerance or be margined
such that the worse-case error remains under the power
source limits.
The accuracy of the Figure 7 circuit is a function of the
INTVDD , VBE , RCL, RF , R1 and R3 tolerances. To improve
accuracy, the tolerance of RF should be changed from
5.1k, 5% to a 2.49k 1% resistor. RCL and the programming
resistors R1 and R3 should also be 1% tolerance such
that the dominant error is INTVDD (±3%). Bias resistor R2
can be 5%. When choosing NPN transistors, both need
to have good gain (>100) at 10µA levels. Low gain NPNs
will increase programming errors. Q1 must be a matched
NPN pair. Since RF has been reduced in value by half, the
capacitor value of CF should double to 0.22µF to remain
effective at filtering out any noise.
If you wish to reduce RCL power dissipation for a given
current limit, the programming equation becomes:
RCL
 5 • 2.49k 
100mV – 
 R1 
=
ILIM
If you wish to make the input current limit programmable,
the equation becomes:
 5 • 2.49k 
100mV – 
 R1 
ILIM =
RCL
The equation governing R2 for both applications is based
on the value of R1. R3 should always be equal to R1.
R2 = 0.875 • R1
In many notebook applications, there are situations
where two different ILIM values are needed to allow two
different power adapters or power sources to be used.
In such cases, start by setting RLIM for the high power
ILIM configuration and then use Figure 7 to set the lower
ILIM value. To toggle between the two ILIM values, take
the three ground connections shown in Figure 7, combine
them into one common connection and use a small-signal
NFET (2N7002) to open or close that common connection to circuit ground. When the NFET is off, the circuit
is defeated (floating) allowing ILIM to be the maximum
value. When the NFET is on, the circuit will become active
and ILIM will drop to the lower set value.
Monitoring Charge Current
The PROG pin voltage can be used to indicate charge current where 1.2085V indicates full programmed current (1C)
and zero charge current is approximately equal to RPROG •
11.67µA. PROG voltage varies in direct proportion to the
charge current between this zero-current (offset) value and
1.2085V. When monitoring the PROG pin voltage, using a
buffer amplifier as shown in Figure 8 will minimize charge
current errors. The buffer amplifier may be powered from
the INTVDD pin or any supply that is always on when the
charger is on.
INTVDD 17
LTC4012-3
–
+
PROG 13
<30nA
TO SYSTEM
MONITOR
4012-3 F08
Figure 8. PROG Voltage Buffer
40123fb
19
LTC4012-3
Applications Information
C/10 CHRG Indicator
The value chosen for RPROG has a strong influence on
charge current monitoring and the accuracy of the C/10
charge indicator output (CHRG). The LTC4012-3 uses the
voltage on the PROG pin to determine when charge current
has dropped to the C/10 threshold. The nominal threshold
of 400mV produces an accurate low charge current indication of C/10 as long as RPROG = 26.7k, independent of
all other current programming considerations. However,
it may sometimes be necessary to deviate from this value
to satisfy other application design goals.
If RPROG is greater than 26.7k, the actual level at which
low charge current is detected will be less than C/10. The
highest value of RPROG that can be used while reliably
indicating low charge current before reaching final VBAT
is 30.1k. RPROG can safely be set to values higher than
this, but low current indication will be lost.
If RPROG is less than 26.7k, low charge current detection
occurs at a level higher than C/10. More importantly, the
LTC4012-3 becomes increasingly sensitive to reverse current. The lowest value of RPROG that can be used without
the risk of erroneous boost operation detection at end of
charge is 26.1k. Values of RPROG less than this should not
be used. See the Operation section for more information
about reverse current.
The nominal fractional value of IMAX at which C/10 indication occurs is given by:
Table 4. Digital Read Back State (IN, Figure 10)
OUT STATE
LTC4012-3
CHARGER STATE
Hi-Z
1
Off
1
1
C/10 Charge
0
1
Bulk Charge
0
0
Input and Output Capacitors
In addition to typical input supply bypassing (0.1µF) on
DCIN, the relatively high ESR of aluminum electrolytic capacitors is helpful for reducing ringing when hot-plugging
the charger to the AC adapter. Refer to LTC Application
Note 88 for more information.
The input capacitor between system power (drain of top
FET, Figure 1) and GND is required to absorb all input PWM
ripple current, therefore it must have adequate ripple current
rating. Maximum RMS ripple current is typically one-half
of the average battery charge current. Actual capacitance
value is not critical, but using the highest possible voltage
rating on PWM input capacitors will minimize problems.
Consult with the manufacturer before use.
VLOGIC
INTVDD 17
100k
100k
Q1
TP0610T
LTC4012-3
CHRG
By using two different value pull-up resistors, a microprocessor can detect three states from this pin (charging,
C/10 and not charging). See Figure 10. When a digital
output port (OUT) from the microprocessor drives one
of the resistors and a second digital input port polls the
network, the charge state can be determined as shown
in Table 4.
C/10
CHRG
Q2
2N7002
7
400mV – (RPROG • 11.67µA)
IC10
=
IMAX 1.2085V – (RPROG • 11.67µA)
Direct digital monitoring of C/10 indication is possible
with an external application circuit like the one shown in
Figure 9.
100k
Q3
2N7002
100k
4012-3 F09
Figure 9. Digital C/10 Indicator
3.3V
LTC4012-3
CHRG 7
VDD
200k
33k
µP
OUT
IN
4012-3 F10
Figure 10. Microprocessor Status Interface
40123fb
20
LTC4012-3
Applications Information
The output capacitor shown across the battery and ground
must also absorb PWM output ripple current. The general
formula for this capacitor current is:
 V 
0.29 • VBAT • 1 – BAT
 VCLP 
IRMS =
L1 • fPWM
For example, IRMS = 0.22A with:
VBAT = 12.6V
VCLP = 19V
L1 = 10µH
fPWM = 550kHz
High capacity ceramic capacitors (20µF or more) available
from a variety of manufacturers can be used for input/output capacitors. Other alternatives include OS-CON and
POSCAP capacitors from Sanyo.
Low ESR solid tantalum capacitors have high ripple current rating in a relatively small surface mount package,
but exercise caution when using tantalum for input or
output bulk capacitors. High input surge current can be
created when the adapter is hot-plugged to the charger
or when a battery is connected to the charger. Solid tantalum capacitors have a known failure mechanism when
subjected to very high surge currents. Select tantalum
capacitors that have high surge current ratings or have
been surge tested.
EMI considerations usually make it desirable to minimize
ripple current in battery leads. Adding Ferrite beads or
inductors can increase battery impedance at the nominal
550kHz switching frequency. Switching ripple current splits
between the battery and the output capacitor in inverse
relation to capacitor ESR and the battery impedance. If
the ESR of the output capacitor is 0.2Ω and the battery
impedance is raised to 4Ω with a ferrite bead, only 5%
of the current ripple will flow to the battery.
Inductor Selection
Higher switching frequency generally results in lower efficiency because of MOSFET gate charge losses, but it allows
smaller inductor and capacitor values to be used. A primary
effect of the inductor value L1 is the amplitude of ripple
current created. The inductor ripple current ΔIL decreases
with higher inductance and PWM operating frequency:
 V 
VBAT • 1 – BAT 
 VCLP 
∆IL =
L1 • fPWM
Accepting larger values of ΔIL allows the use of low inductance, but results in higher output voltage ripple and
greater core losses. Lower charge currents generally call
for larger inductor values.
The LTC4012-3 limits maximum instantaneous peak inductor current during every PWM cycle. To avoid unstable
switch waveforms, the ripple current must satisfy:
150mV

∆IL < 2 • 
– IMAX 
RSENSE

so choose:
L1 >
0.125 • VCLP
 150mV

fPWM • 
– IMAX 
 RSENSE

For C-grade parts, a reasonable starting point for setting
ripple current is ΔIL = 0.4 • IMAX. For I-grade parts, use
ΔIL = 0.2 • IMAX only if the IC will actually be used to charge
batteries over the wider I-grade temperature range. The
voltage compliance of internal LTC4012-3 circuits also
imposes limits on ripple current. Select RIN (in Figure 1)
to avoid average current errors in high ripple designs. The
following equation can be used for guidance:
R
RSENSE • ∆IL
• ∆IL
≤ RIN ≤ SENSE
50µA
20µA
40123fb
21
LTC4012-3
Applications Information
RIN should not be less than 2.37k or more than 6.04k. Values of RIN greater than 3.01k may cause some reduction in
programmed current accuracy. Use these equations and
guidelines, as represented in Table 5, to help select the correct inductor value. This table was developed for C-grade
parts to maintain maximum ΔIL near 0.6 • IMAX with fPWM at
550kHz and VBAT = 0.5 • VCLP (the point of maximum ΔIL),
assuming that inductor value could also vary by 25% at
IMAX. For I-grade parts, reduce maximum ΔIL to less than
0.4 • IMAX, but only if the IC will actually be used to charge
batteries over the wider I-grade temperature range. In that
case, a good starting point can be found by multiplying
the inductor values shown in Table 5 by a factor of 1.6 and
rounding up to the nearest standard value.
Table 5. Minimum Typical Inductor Values
VCLP
L1
(Typ)
IMAX
RSENSE
RIN
RPROG
<10V
≥10µH
1A
100mΩ
3.01k
26.7k
10V to 20V
≥20µH
1A
100mΩ
3.01k
26.7k
>20V
≥28µH
1A
100mΩ
3.01k
26.7k
<10V
≥5.1µH
2A
50mΩ
3.01k
26.7k
10V to 20V
≥10µH
2A
50mΩ
3.01k
26.7k
>20V
≥14µH
2A
50mΩ
3.01k
26.7k
<10V
≥3.4µH
3A
33mΩ
3.01k
26.7k
10V to 20V
≥6.8µH
3A
33mΩ
3.01k
26.7k
>20V
≥9.5µH
3A
33mΩ
3.01k
26.7k
<10V
≥2.5µH
4A
25mΩ
3.01k
26.7k
10V to 20V
≥5.1µH
4A
25mΩ
3.01k
26.7k
>20V
≥7.1µH
4A
25mΩ
3.01k
26.7k
TGATE BOOST Supply
Use the external components shown in Figure 11 to develop
a bootstrapped BOOST supply for the TGATE FET driver.
A good set of equations governing selection of the two
capacitors is:
C1 =
20 • QG
, C2 = 20 • C1
4.5V
where QG is the rated gate charge of the top external NFET
with VGS = 4.5V. The maximum average diode current is
then given by:
ID = QG • 665kHz
To improve efficiency by increasing VGS applied to the
top FET, substitute a Schottky diode with low reverse
leakage for D1.
PWM jitter has been observed in some designs operating
at higher VIN/VOUT ratios. This jitter does not substantially
affect DC charge current accuracy. A series resistor with a
value of 5Ω to 20Ω can be inserted between the cathode
of D1 and the BOOST pin to remove this jitter, if present.
A resistor case size of 0603 or larger is recommended to
lower ESL and achieve the best results.
BOOST 20
D1
1N4148
LTC4012-3
INTVDD 17
C2
2µF
SW 18
To guarantee that a chosen inductor is optimized in any
given application, use the design equations provided and
perform bench evaluation in the target application, particularly at duty cycles below 20% or above 80% where
PWM frequency can be much less than the nominal value
of 550kHz.
C1
0.1µF
L1
4012-3 F11
TO
RSENSE
Figure 11. TGATE Boost Supply
40123fb
22
LTC4012-3
Applications Information
FET Selection
Two external power MOSFETs must be selected for use
with the charger: an N-channel power switch (top FET)
and an N-channel synchronous rectifier (bottom FET).
Peak gate-to-source drive levels are internally set to
about 5V. Consequently, logic-level FETs must be used.
In addition to the fundamental DC current, selection
criteria for these MOSFETs also include channel resistance RDS(ON), total gate charge QG , reverse transfer
capacitance CRSS , maximum rated drain-source voltage
BVDSS and switching characteristics such as td(ON/OFF).
Power dissipation for each external FET is given by:
PD(TOP) =
VBAT • IMAX 2 • (1+ δ∆T) RDS(ON)
VCLP
+ k • VCLP 2 • IMAX • CRSS • 665kHz
PD(BOT)
VCLP – VBAT ) • IMAX 2 • (1+ δ∆T) RDS(ON)
(
=
The synchronous (bottom) FET losses are greatest at high
input voltage or during a short circuit, which forces a low
side duty cycle of nearly 100%. Increasing the size of this
FET lowers its losses but increases power dissipation in the
LTC4012-3. Using asymmetrical FETs will normally achieve
cost savings while allowing optimum efficiency.
Select FETs with BVDSS that exceeds the maximum VCLP
voltage that will occur. Both FETs are subjected to this level
of stress during operation. Many logic-level MOSFETs are
limited to 30V or less.
The LTC4012-3 uses an improved adaptive TGATE and
BGATE drive that is insensitive to MOSFET inertial delays,
td(ON/OFF), to avoid overlap conduction losses. Switching
characteristics from power MOSFET data sheets apply
only to a specific test fixture, so there is no substitute for
bench evaluation of external FETs in the target application.
In general, MOSFETs with lower inertial delays will yield
higher efficiency.
VCLP
where δ is the temperature dependency of RDS(ON),
ΔT is the temperature rise above the point specified in
the FET data sheet for RDS(ON) and k is a constant inversely related to the internal LTC4012-3 top gate driver.
The term (1 + δΔT) is generally given for a MOSFET in the
form of a normalized RDS(ON) curve versus temperature,
but δ of 0.005/°C can be used as a suitable approximation for logic-level FETs if other data is not available.
CRSS = ΔQGD /ΔVDS is usually specified in the MOSFET
characteristics. The constant k = 2 can be used in estimating top FET dissipation. The LTC4012-3 is designed
to work best with external FET switches with a total gate
charge at 5V of 15nC or less.
Diode Selection
For VCLP < 20V, high charge current efficiency generally
improves with larger FETs, while for VCLP > 20V, top gate
transition losses increase rapidly to the point that using
a topside NFET with higher RDS(ON) but lower CRSS can
actually provide higher efficiency. If the charger will be
operated with a duty cycle above 85%, overall efficiency
is normally improved by using a larger top FET.
The three separate PWM control loops of the LTC4012-3
can be compensated by a single set of components attached between the ITH pin and GND. As shown in the
typical LTC4012-3 application, a 6.04k resistor in series
with a capacitor of at least 0.1µF provides adequate loop
compensation for the majority of applications.
A Schottky diode in parallel with the bottom FET and/or
top FET in an LTC4012-3 application clamps SW during
the non-overlap times between conduction of the top and
bottom FET switches. This prevents the body diode of the
MOSFETs from forward biasing and storing charge, which
could reduce efficiency as much as 1%. One or both diodes
can be omitted if the efficiency loss can be tolerated. A 1A
Schottky is generally a good size for 3A chargers due to the
low duty cycle of the non-overlap times. Larger diodes can
actually result in additional efficiency (transition) losses
due to larger junction capacitance.
Loop Compensation and Soft-Start
40123fb
23
LTC4012-3
Applications Information
The LTC4012-3 can be soft-started with the compensation
capacitor on the ITH pin. At start-up, ITH will quickly rise
to about 0.25V, then ramp up at a rate set by the compensation capacitor and the 40µA ITH bias current. The
full programmed charge current will be reached when ITH
reaches approximately 2V. With a 0.1µF capacitor, the time
to reach full charge current is usually greater than 1.5ms.
This capacitor can be increased if longer start-up times
are required, but loop bandwidth and dynamic response
will be reduced.
INTVDD Regulator Output
Bypass the INTVDD regulator output to GND with a low
ESR X5R or X7R ceramic capacitor with a value of 0.47µF
or larger. The capacitor used to build the BOOST supply
(C2 in Figure 11) can serve as this bypass. Do not draw
more than 30mA from this regulator for the host system,
governed by IC power dissipation.
Calculating IC Power Dissipation
The user should ensure that the maximum rated junction
temperature is not exceeded under all operating conditions.
The thermal resistance of the LTC4012-3 package (θJA)
is 37°C/W, provided the Exposed Pad is in good thermal
contact with the PCB. The actual thermal resistance in the
application will depend on forced air cooling and other heat
sinking means, especially the amount of copper on the
PCB to which the LTC4012-3 is attached. The following
formula may be used to estimate the maximum average power dissipation, PD (in watts), of the LTC4012-3,
which is dependent upon the gate charge of the external
MOSFETs. This gate charge, which is a function of both
gate and drain voltage swings, is determined from specifications or graphs in the manufacturer’s data sheet. For
the equation below, find the gate charge for each transistor
assuming 5V gate swing and a drain voltage swing equal
to the maximum VCLP voltage. Maximum LTC4012-3
power dissipation under normal operating conditions is
then given by:
where:
IDD = Average external INTVDD load current, if any
QTGATE = Gate charge of external top FET in Coulombs
QBGATE = Gate charge of external bottom FET in
Coulombs
PCB Layout Conciderations
To prevent magnetic and electrical field radiation and
high frequency resonant problems, proper layout of the
components connected to the LTC4012-3 is essential.
Refer to Figure 12. For maximum efficiency, the switch
node rise and fall times should be minimized. The following
PCB design priority list will help insure proper topology.
Layout the PCB using this specific order.
1. Input capacitors should be placed as close as possible
to switching FET supply and ground connections with
the shortest copper traces possible. The switching
FETs must be on the same layer of copper as the input
capacitors. Vias should not be used to make these
connections.
2. Place the LTC4012-3 close to the switching FET gate
terminals, keeping the connecting traces short to produce clean drive signals. This rule also applies to IC
supply and ground pins that connect to the switching
FET source pins. The IC can be placed on the opposite
side of the PCB from the switching FETs.
SWITCH NODE
L1
VIN
CIN
HIGH
FREQUENCY
CIRCULATING
PATH
RSENSE
VBAT
COUT
D1
+
BAT
ANALOG
GROUND
GND
SWITCHING GROUND
4012 F12
SYSTEM
GROUND
Figure 12. High Speed Switching Path
PD = DCIN(3mA + IDD + 665kHz(QTGATE + QBGATE))
– 5IDD
40123fb
24
LTC4012-3
Applications Information
3. Place the inductor input as close as possible to the
switching FETs. Minimize the surface area of the switch
node. Make the trace width the minimum needed to
support the programmed charge current. Use no copper fills or pours. Avoid running the connection on
multiple copper layers in parallel. Minimize capacitance
from the switch node to any other trace or plane.
4. Place the charge current sense resistor immediately
adjacent to the inductor output, and orient it such that
current sense traces to the LTC4012-3 are not long.
These feedback traces need to be run together as a
single pair with the smallest spacing possible on any
given layer on which they are routed. Locate any filter
component on these traces next to the LTC4012-3,
and not at the sense resistor location.
5. Place output capacitors adjacent to the sense resistor
output and ground.
6. Output capacitor ground connections must feed into
the same copper that connects to the input capacitor
ground before connecting back to system ground.
7. Connection of switching ground to system ground,
or any internal ground plane, should be single-point.
If the system has an internal system ground plane,
a good way to do this is to cluster vias into a single
star point to make the connection.
8. Route analog ground as a trace tied back to the
LTC4012-3 GND pin and paddle before connecting
to any other ground. Avoid using the system ground
plane. A useful CAD technique is to make analog
ground a separate ground net and use a 0Ω resistor
to connect analog ground to system ground.
9. A good rule of thumb for via count in a given high
current path is to use 0.5A per via. Be consistent when
applying this rule.
10.If possible, place all the parts listed above on the same
PCB layer.
11.Copper fills or pours are good for all power connections
except as noted above in Rule 3. Copper planes on
multiple layers can also be used in parallel. This helps
with thermal management and lowers trace inductance,
which further improves EMI performance.
12.For best current programming accuracy, provide a
Kelvin connection from RSENSE to CSP and CSN. See
Figure 13 for an example.
13.It is important to minimize parasitic capacitance on
the CSP and CSN pins. The traces connecting these
pins to their respective resistors should be as short
as possible.
DIRECTION OF CHARGING CURRENT
RSENSE
4012 F13
TO CSP
RIN
TO CSN
RIN
Figure 13. Kelvin Sensing of Charge Current
40123fb
25
LTC4012-3
Package Description
UF Package
20-Lead Plastic QFN (4mm × 4mm)
(Reference LTC DWG # 05-08-1710 Rev A)
0.70 ±0.05
4.50 ± 0.05
3.10 ± 0.05
2.00 REF
2.45 ± 0.05
2.45 ± 0.05
PACKAGE OUTLINE
0.25 ±0.05
0.50 BSC
RECOMMENDED SOLDER PAD PITCH AND DIMENSIONS
APPLY SOLDER MASK TO AREAS THAT ARE NOT SOLDERED
4.00 ± 0.10
0.75 ± 0.05
R = 0.05
TYP
R = 0.115
TYP
19 20
0.40 ± 0.10
PIN 1
TOP MARK
(NOTE 6)
4.00 ± 0.10
PIN 1 NOTCH
R = 0.20 TYP
OR 0.35 s 45°
CHAMFER
BOTTOM VIEW—EXPOSED PAD
1
2.00 REF
2.45 ± 0.10
2
2.45 ± 0.10
(UF20) QFN 01-07 REV A
0.200 REF
0.00 – 0.05
0.25 ± 0.05
0.50 BSC
NOTE:
1. DRAWING IS PROPOSED TO BE MADE A JEDEC PACKAGE OUTLINE MO-220
VARIATION (WGGD-1)—TO BE APPROVED
2. DRAWING NOT TO SCALE
3. ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN MILLIMETERS
4. DIMENSIONS OF EXPOSED PAD ON BOTTOM OF PACKAGE DO NOT INCLUDE
MOLD FLASH. MOLD FLASH, IF PRESENT, SHALL NOT EXCEED 0.15mm ON ANY SIDE
5. EXPOSED PAD SHALL BE SOLDER PLATED
6. SHADED AREA IS ONLY A REFERENCE FOR PIN 1 LOCATION
ON THE TOP AND BOTTOM OF PACKAGE
40123fb
26
LTC4012-3
Revision History
(Revision history begins at Rev B)
REV
DATE
DESCRIPTION
PAGE NUMBER
B
3/10
I-Grade Part Added. Reflected Throughout the Data Sheet
1 to 28
40123fb
Information furnished by Linear Technology Corporation is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, no responsibility is assumed for its use. Linear Technology Corporation makes no representation that the interconnection of its circuits as described herein will not infringe on existing patent rights.
27
LTC4012-3
Typical Application
12.6V 4 Amp Charger
FROM
ADAPTER
15V AT 4A
Q5
C1
0.1µF
R1
3k
R
D1
7
4
R2
10k
5
INFET
CHRG
DCIN
GND
CLP
CLN
BOOST
C4
0.1µF
3
2
R8
5.1k
D5
1
20
C8
10µF
R15
0Ω*
C5
0.1µF
19
BULK
CHARGE
POWER TO SYSTEM
R7
25mΩ
TGATE
LTC4012-3
18
SW
17
INTVDD
8
16
ICL
BGATE
TO/FROM
6
MCU
SHDN
21
GND
12
ITH
15
CSP
C2
0.1µF
R4
14
6.04k
CSN
11
BAT
13
10
PROG
FBDIV
C3
R5
4.7nF
26.7k
9
VFB
R6
Q1
53.6k
D3
Q2
D4
Q3
C6
2µF
L1
4.7µH
R9 3.01k
R11
25mΩ
R10 3.01k
R12
294k
C10
10pF
C9
10µF
R13
31.2k
+
OR
R14
100k
D6
18V
ZENER
Q4
TO POWER SYSTEM LOAD
WHEN ADAPTER IS NOT
PRESENT, USE
SCHOTTKY DIODE D5 OR
THE COMBINATION OF R14, R2
D6 AND Q4
D3: CMDSH-3
D4: MBR230LSFT1
Q1: 2N7002
Q2, Q3: Si7218DN
Q4, Q5: Si7423DN
L1: 1HLP-2525CZER4R7M11
*: SEE TGATE BOOST SUPPLY IN
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
12.6V
Li-Ion
BATTERY
40123 TA03
Related Parts
PART NUMBER
DESCRIPTION
COMMENTS
LTC4006
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Very Low Loss Replacement for Power Supply ORing Diodes Using
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LTC4413
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Low Loss Replacement for ORing Diodes, 100mΩ On Resistance
LTC4414
36V, Low Loss PowerPath Controller for Large PFETs
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LTC4416
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40123fb
28 Linear Technology Corporation
1630 McCarthy Blvd., Milpitas, CA 95035-7417
(408) 432-1900
●
FAX: (408) 434-0507 ● www.linear.com
LT 0610 REV B • PRINTED IN USA
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION 2009